Stalemate over development of prime Albany land

Stalemate over the future of the site of the former Esplanade Hotel in Albany.

ABC News: Jacob Kagi

The Premier, Colin Barnett, says the Singaporean owners of one of Albany's prime vacant lots have been uncooperative in attempts to resolve a stalemate over the land.

The site of the former Esplanade Hotel at Middleton Beach has sat vacant for six years, after a proposed new development was shelved.

Before the election, the Government threatened to reclaim the site if the land was not sold or developed, but inaction over that plan has led to criticism from the Opposition and business groups.

Mr Barnett said the Government stands by the threat.

"The owners have not been cooperative but if we cannot conclude a transaction I assure you we will act to resume that property, I've made that very clear," he said.

The Labor Member for Albany, Peter Watson, said he is upset too little progress has been made even after the Premier said he wanted it resolved by the middle of this year.

"I'm calling on the Premier to stop sitting on his hands, stop ignoring Albany and not only fix the Esplanade site but if he has promised the gas pipeline then get off your butt and do something Premier," Mr Watson said.